Captain Alfred Barker takes the stand as Nafiz Modack trial returns from recess

SAPS Captain Alfred Barker took the witness stand in the Western Cape High Court on Monday as the trial of alleged underworld figure Nafiz Modack and 14 co-accused resumed following a two-month recess.

The accused face a slew of charges, including murder, extortion, fraud, and money laundering, all linked to the alleged operation of a criminal enterprise.

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Captain Barker was summoned to testify by Modack’s defence attorney, Advocate Bashier Sibda. During the proceedings, the defence suggested that Barker was involved in an undercover operation, orchestrated by Modack, intended to expose corruption among senior police officials.

Barker testified that his initial contact with Modack came through a police constable. The constable informed him that Modack wished to lodge a formal complaint against his alleged underworld rival, Mark Lifman.

"I then was informed that Mr Modack was arrested and was currently detained in Pollsmoor," Barker told the court.

The Captain confirmed that he visited Modack while he was being held at the correctional facility. During these visits, Modack reportedly detailed various complaints against Lifman.

Barker further testified that he eventually acted on these complaints and arrested Mark Lifman. However, he noted that despite the arrest, the case never proceeded to court.

The trial, which remains one of the most high-profile organised crime cases in the Western Cape, is expected to continue this week as the defence further explores the alleged links between the accused and law enforcement.